Traditional bonesetters in South Western Nigeria - Friends or foes?

Objective: To highlight the dangers inherent in the practice of traditional bone setting in South Western Nigeria as evidenced by the preventable complications that accompany treatment of fractures, joint dislocations and limb deformities by traditional bonesetters (TBS). Method: Twenty-five consecutive patients with fractures, dislocations and limb deformities who had been previously managed by TBS and who subsequently presented to the University College Hospital, Ibadan (on account of complications from treatment at the TBS) between 1st October 1999 and 31st March 2000 were evaluated. Result: Fourteen patients had fracture non-union or malunion necessitating open reduction and internal fixation. Two patients with wet gangrene of the extremities had amputations. Conclusion: Traditional bone setting is an ancient trade practiced in Nigeria and most developing countries without government regulations and they lack guidance. The complications that accompany these practices are unacceptable and it is imperative that there should be legislation to curb their activities and save the unsuspecting public from further harm or even death.